Articles by Lorna Elliott on Staying Safe When Shopping Online
Can a Website Advertise Items as in Stock When They Are Not?
When retailers show items as in stock but they're not, it's usually legal, here's what actually matters and when they cross the line.
6th June 2026
Checklist: Privacy Policies and Data Protection Online
Check what companies can legally do with your data and how to protect yourself online under UK data protection laws.
19th March 2026
Scams That Affect Sellers Online
Online sellers face real fraud risks from fake cheques, overpayment scams, and drop-shipping schemes that can cost them money and goods.
16th February 2010
Buying 'Personal' Items Online
Your rights when buying intimate items online and what sellers must accept as returns.
16th February 2010
Questionnaire: Avoiding Identity Fraud
Check if you're vulnerable to identity theft with this questionnaire and learn practical steps to protect yourself.
11th February 2010
How to Avoid Buying Counterfeit Goods Online
Check prices against retail values and watch for fake product images to spot counterfeit goods before you buy online.
11th February 2010
Invoiced for 'Free' Goods: What Are Your Rights?
When a company invoices you for goods advertised as free, contract law likely won't help you get them without paying.
2nd July 2009
How PayPal and Worldpay Work
PayPal and Worldpay let you pay online safely without sharing your credit card or bank details directly with merchants.
1st April 2009
Questionnaire: Who Pays Postage and Packing?
Who pays for postage and packing depends on whether you're buying from a business or private seller, and what the agreement says beforehand.
1st April 2009
Rights When Buying a Car Online
Know your legal rights when buying a car online from private sellers or dealers and what protections apply to you.
1st April 2009
Your Rights When Furniture Buying Online
Know what legal protections you have when buying furniture online, including your right to accurate descriptions and clear pricing.
31st March 2009
Getting a Refund from Your Credit Card Company
Your credit card company can refund you for faulty goods or services, but only if you meet specific requirements under consumer law.
30th March 2009
Is This Website Safe to Use?, Common Questions
Check for HTTPS, padlocks and correct web addresses before shopping online to protect your personal and card details.
18th February 2009
What to Do if Your Card Details Are Stolen
Act fast if your card details are stolen: contact your bank immediately and check your transactions to limit the damage.
17th February 2009
Consumer Contract Regulations, Buying Shoes: A Sample Case
Jeremy ordered replacement shoes online and they caused painful blisters, here's what consumer rights say about his situation.
9th February 2009
Consumer Contract Regulations, Buying Gifts: A Sample Case
When Sean buys gifts online, several things go wrong, and he learns what consumer protections actually apply to his purchases.
9th February 2009
Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations
You have legal protection against traders who mislead you or hide important facts to push a sale through.
9th February 2009
Internet Sales Letters: The Truth
How internet sales letters use psychology to persuade you into buying things you might not actually need.
9th February 2009